Ohio State University to Host Second Annual Suicide Prevention Training Event

Ohio State University is set to host its second annual “REACH on Repeat Challenge Day” on September 23rd, an event focused on increasing the number of certified suicide prevention gatekeepers across its campuses. The initiative aims to build upon the success of its inaugural year, with a specific goal to surpass last year’s record of 108 individuals trained.

The “REACH on Repeat Challenge Day” offers a 90-minute training program designed to equip participants with essential skills for suicide prevention. The curriculum focuses on five key steps: Recognize warning signs, Engage with empathy, Ask directly about suicide, Communicate hope, and Help suicidal individuals access care. This comprehensive approach aims to empower individuals to intervene effectively and support those in distress.

This year marks a significant expansion for the event, which was previously limited to the Columbus campus. The “REACH on Repeat Challenge Day” will now extend its reach to all six Ohio State University campuses. This broadened scope is intended to increase accessibility to the training and foster a wider culture of support and awareness throughout the university system.

The event’s primary objective is to certify more individuals as suicide prevention gatekeepers, thereby creating a more robust support network for students, faculty, and staff. The university aims to increase the total number of certified gatekeepers from the 108 achieved in the previous year, highlighting a commitment to mental health and well-being initiatives.